§ 19. Mr. Swinglerasked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to what extent, in his co-ordination of information services, he has encouraged the production of British documentary films and their exhibition at international festivals.
Dr. HillIn 1958–59, the Central Office of Information commissioned 28 documentary films and acquired 118, all for overseas distribution. In 1959–60, 33 films have been delivered or commissioned and it is expected that about 120 will be acquired. All documentary films handled by the Central Office of Information are considered for showing at international festivals. Over 100 of these British films have been entered in 1959. Twenty-one awards or special mentions have been gained in 1959 by British documentary films.
§ Mr. SwinglerWhy was it that at the most recent festival the Central Office of Information did not put any films forward? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there has been a great deal of criticism of this and that it has been made to appear that the British documentary film industry is in a state of decline?
Dr. HillIf the hon. Member is referring to the remarks by Mr. Paul Rotha in the Guardian, that was a film festival limited to films on exploration and mountaineering. Some old films relating to Everest and Antarctica went in, but the fact is that in recent years the C.O.I. has not made films on this subject, other subjects having priority.